Can someone help me with a GPS unit?

[Wolf_Dancer34]

I currently am interested in GPS units for my tracking business and have found the "Ifinder series" very interesting..If anyone has one or knows how easy there capabilities are to use I would be very interested in talking to you...I have looked at alot of different models and seem to like this one the best so far....They are all expensive so that is not really a consideration. I just feel like I am ready for the next level above a compass...but am also looking for a no muss no fuss model. One that does not take a scientist to figure out.....Thanks

[hitechman]

units on the market today are good. Just look for the features you want and talk to someone who owns one and see what they think. What iFinder model were you looking at, as I see that Lowrence has discontinued a few of those models? Some of the people on this site have spoken highly of these units--search this forum for more info on them.

I have owned Magellans and Garmins. I had a bad experience with my first Magellan in 1995 and have not owned one since. I have had great luck with Garmins. I prefer the larger sized handhelds--easier on my failing eyes, and fit my rather large hands and fingers (nothing worse than pushing a small button and hitting 3 of them with a big finger).

I owned the Garmin GPS-72 which I have given to my grandson (a basic B&W unit that I always seemed to go back too for the woods and water--I teach a unit in GPS use at school and we use this unit to introduce GPS), the Garmin GPSMap 76c (a color handheld with a fixed memory capable of uploading maps) which I have sold (to upgrade). I currently own the Garmin GPSMap 76Cx and the Garmin GPSMap 76CSx (both have a memory card holding the uploaded maps and I have 3-4 memory cards with extra maps). The SiRF (x) technology is great a receiving weak signals in and around buildings and in heavy forest cover. The CSx has an electronic compass (don't have to be moving for it to work) and an altimeter/barometer.

You said you wanted a unit for "tracking". Tracking what? Do you want mapping capability--if you do then plan on buying some 256mb, 512 mb, or larger memory cards, since the 16-64mb cards that come with them never seem to hold enough maps? Do you want it to be portable (handheld) or is it a unit that will permanently sit on your dashboard (my Garmin GPSMap 76Cx spends 90% of its life sitting in a holder on my dashboard)? Color or Black and white? The battery life is "NEVER" as long as stated by the companies and shortens drastically when the backlight is used or you have it set to use WAAS.

So many questions and YOU need to find your answers to these and then find the units that fit your answers. There are "holders" (for boat and dash) available for handhelds, and thus they can serve a dual purpose--don't try and haul one of those big dash units into the woods with you.

I have nothing bad to say about any other brands as I have not used them. I have heard others complain about the difficulty in figuring out how to use the Magellans, but this may have changed). I have had good luck with my Garmin units (and their menus are very user friendly--not to say other brands are not), and have decided to stick with them until I don't.

One other thing to consider--do you want mapping capability? How much ($$) are the maps, and what maps are available? This, IMHO, is the weak link in most (if not all) GPS units, as they will only take "Their Brand" of mapping software, and you are stuck with what maps the brand has to offer. Garmins topo maps are already 10+ years old and out of date as far as roads/highways, and they are not "updated" often. The basemaps that come with most units are very minimal and useless.

Remember----you get what you pay for. Hope this helps you a little.

Steve

PS: Sorry it took me so long to reply to your post, but hunting season has my attention right now!!

[Wolf_Dancer34]

No thank you for responding!! I run a deer tracking business for hunters in the fall. I want to use it for finding my way in and out of the woods from whatever location I seem to end up in. Deer never head just one direction when you are tracking them in the dark.. Yes I am a bow hunter as well and would like the mapping system on them as well to move around the woods....I am not sure what mode as yes...I actually saw this model in television and looked them up in Cabelas magazine...When I do make a purchase of one I want to make sure what I purchase is up and above my expectations and capabilities, but also want to be able to understand what it is I want and how to find it. I see that you can also use them when traveling on the road as well, yes! It would be great if i could use them to not get lost when traveling somewhere lol...

[hitechman]

conversation with you on the phone WD34. I envy your profession and wish you the best with your new lab (I have 3 of them--forgot to tell you that).

Do your research on the GPS's and take your time to make an informed decision---you won't regret it.

Find out what geocaching is yet?? It takes up most of my spare time.

Take care and let me know what unit you decide on and how you like it. Feel free to contact me if you need pointing to a website to purchase one (or accessories). Search this forum as well as there is lots of great info here and links to some great GPS websites as well.

You other members--Please give her some info on the GPS units you use for hunting and how you like them. She's looking for a mapping unit (removeable memory) that is waterproof and floats, that can also sit in a holder on the dash, which will be used more than 50% of the time at night and in some heavy tree cover at times.

Steve

[ih772]

Try www.gpsinformation.net (http://www.gpsinformation.net)

[Wolf_Dancer34]

Hitechman I went to lowrances site which was very interesting. I am so new to everything that it does not all make sense. I would like to email you what i found and see if you can help me make sense of it. I tried to look at prices on there site but I have to actually go to a place that has the products.

[hitechman]

these sites:

http://www.thegpsstore.com/GPS-Lowrance-GPS.asp (Lowrance)

http://www.gpsnow.com/ (Garmin)

http://lowrance.factoryoutletstore.com/?&arefx=3757442 (Lowrance Outlet

http://www.epinions.com/GPS_Devices--reviews--lowrance (prices & reviews)

PM sent.

Steve

[Wolf_Dancer34]

I found all the information you sent me more than informative but---please help me choose just one..It sounds like I may be leaning more towards Garmin since they are more of an established company. There are so many to choose from and so many on sale right now. You know what I pretty much am looking for so if you could give me a specific model and # that would be great. Geocaching sounds like alot of fun and I can see how it would be pretty addicting once you got started in it...I may have to check it out in the future. Thanks again for all of your help.

Catherine

[hitechman]

and I'm sure some other members will make a reccomendation as well.

1) What is your spending limit?
2) Color or black and white?
3) Mapping or nonmapping (basic)? If mapping--internal memory or removable cards? What type of maps?
4) Portable, car, or capable of both (dash mounts available for most portables)?
5) Size--small (like eTrex), Medium (like GPS 60), or large (GPS 72/76)?
6) Larger screen or smaller screen?
7) Where will it mainly be used (type of terrain--heavy tree cover, open areas)?
8) Water proof and floating?

Any of the portables/brands (hand-helds) should work for Geocaching, and most (if not all) have a "track-back option.

Remember that maps (around $100 each type), holders and bases (around $50), carrying cases (around $20), DC-power cords (around $15), and all other "extras" will add to the price, but can always be purchased later.

If you'll answer these questions I can give you an idea for a Garmin. I've only used Garmin and Magellan brands, and I prefer the Garmin. BUT other brands are probably just as good (maybe better), and I am sure some other members can give you some kind of idea as to what model will fit your needs.

You are correct--lots of sales and free shipping this time of year, and Garmin has a $50 rebate on some of its models (expires 12/31/06).

Steve

[res]

I have the Garmin 60 csx. I bought it the end of October and I like this thing. It has the mapping capability as well as the electronic compass. The compass is ok but it does seem to have issues on occasion being accurate. Not bad just on occasion and ONLY the compass. I agree with the statement given that you will need a different card. I am looking at a 512. I can only put one map of Michigan on it and after that there is no room for much storage or other maps. Got mine from Gander as a package with topomap. Rick

[Wolf_Dancer34]

Ok here goes!!
1. I dont have a spending limit.
2. I would prefer color.
3. Yes mapping. Most likely removeable cards. (it seems the way to go?)
4. Portable
5. Size: Isnt bigger better (just kidding) what ever will work best for being in the woods.
5. All types of terrain.
6. Water proof should be sufficient.
7. Sigh!!

I hope this gives you enough information to direct me to a specific make and model.. Talk to you soon!!

[Captain Tan Can]

I purchased a Garmin 38, 8 channel almost 10 years ago. My son has a Garmin 76, I then had to one up him with a 76c. I also have a Garmin and a Lowrance chart plotter on my boat. We love our 76's I just like the color so much better. I can see it better in bright sunlight. Both lock on quickly and hold sat signals well even in heavy woods. I will say that the Navionics chip that fits my Lowrance unit seems to have better detail and clarity than the Garmin navigation chips. I like the simple menu options on the Garmin. I would stick with one from either of these two manufacturers.

[hitechman]

Remember I am particular to Garmin--only used them and a Magellan (had a bad experience with it years ago and switched--may have changed now). I'm not knocking the other manufacturers--I've just had no experience with them. Maybe some other members can suggest a model of a different brand.

I own (or have owned) all of these units and they are listed in no particular order. You decide and make a post to this forum and I will direct you to a reputable website with the best price.

All are color, mapping (with removable data cards), large screen, portable, and posess the new SiRF technology ("X" treme receiver sensitivity in heavy cover which sounds like a "must have" for you):

1. Garmin GPSMap 60 X series ($50 rebate until 12/31/06)--These are WATER RESISTANT, but DO NOT FLOAT. They have the large screen, but are smaller in total size than #2.
a. Garmin GPSMap 60Cx
b. Garmin GPSMap 60CSx (has sensors--an electronic compass and an altimeter/barometer for $50 more the the above model).

2. Garmin GPSMap 76 X series--These are a larger unit with a slighty larger screen than the 60. They are WATER RESISTANT and they DO FLOAT.
a. Garmin GPSMap 76Cx
b. Garmin GPSMap 76CSx (has sensors--an electronic compass and an altimeter/barometer for $50 more the the above model).

NOTE: The Garmin GPSMap 60C, 60CS, 76C, and 76CS have been discontinued by Garmin (but not those with "X" in the model number).

You can decide whether you want the sensors or not and that will limit your choice to 2. IMHO the electronic compass is not all that great, but I love the barometer to aid me in forecasting weather in Norther Ontario or where I can't hear a weather report.

Compare them at Garmin: http://www.garmin.com/outdoor/products.html#mapping
or at this website: http://gpsnow.com/gmmap76cx.htm (a comparison already set up for you--remember the eTrex does not have the SiRF technology)

Remember you will only be able to use Garmin Maps on these units. If you get a Garmin I will reccommend some accessories to you.

Good Luck.

Steve

PS--I've heard rumors to stay away from the COBRA units!

[glock29]

2. IMHO the electronic compass is not all that great

Very good information for someone looking for a new GPS. I have to disagree with this statement though. I used the compass on my 60CS this deer season in a swamp when something interfered with my regular compass. Turned on the electronic compass in the GPS and calibrated per the on screen instructions...walked SW via the compass in very thick cover watching progress on the map. It worked perfectly....:) I used Lowrance for several years until I tried this Garmin...I'm not going back anytime soon...very good unit.

[Wolf_Dancer34]

With all the good information I have gotten on here I seen now to be more leaning to Garmin instead of Lowrance. I still have some time before we make a decision between the two companies.

[M1Garand]

Very good information for someone looking for a new GPS. I have to disagree with this statement though. I used the compass on my 60CS this deer season in a swamp when something interfered with my regular compass. Turned on the electronic compass in the GPS and calibrated per the on screen instructions...walked SW via the compass in very thick cover watching progress on the map. It worked perfectly....:) I used Lowrance for several years until I tried this Garmin...I'm not going back anytime soon...very good unit.

I agree here. I'll throw in my experience with GPS's with and without the electronic compass (EC) and try to keep it short. Several years ago when they first came out with the eTrex Vista (chromatic screen and has the EC) I bought one as a tool to scout for hunting. My dad picked up the Legend a few months later. We'd scout around and mark areas and when heading back to the truck (in the go-to feature) the Vista would take us right to the truck, staying on course the entire time. My dad would say his was pointing erratically. He'd made other comments on his arrow pointing around, when he was bowhunting in the Dead Stream Swamp and fishing in Canada. I never thought much of it due to he's not the most technically savy guy and some other reasons and never took it seriously.

Last spring after using the original Legend for a few years and never once having an issue, I decided I'd upgrade to a color screen. I figured I didn't really need the EC so I went with the Legend CX. Last spring as we were scouting and I was marking potential stand sites I found that the arrow (again in the go-to feature) would point one way and then shift and point in a different direction, it was erratic. It did this every time I took it out, mostly in the Pigeon River area. I started to wonder if this had something to do with it not having the EC. So I spoke to a sales rep and he confirmed my suspicions. I'm not the most technical guy so I'll try to relay the jist of what he said. He said that unit auto updated with positional data so many times per whatever unit of time. If the unit was receiving a weak signal (or maybe moving too slowly) it couldn't accurately determine which direction you were actually travelling, hence the erratic arrow pointing. He claimed one with the EC could keep you on the correct course until the positional data could be picked up again or register with the unit. There was some reference to that in a brochure but I don't have that with me and don't wnat to guess, but I did find this on the Garmin site:

The electronic compass allows the user to view his and her heading while either standing still or moving too slowly for the GPS to detect.

Now keep in mind that the accuracy of the Legend is <15 meters (thats a 45 foot circle) under ideal conditions. If you are not moving fast enough when the unit updates the position and without the EC, it can't accurately determine your direction (to it you are essentially standing still). I can't say what the minimum speed is but with a minimum accuracy of <15 meters (normally much more) it has to be fairly quick. In thick forest, you can't always move a certain speed and this is compounded when the unit may not always be reading a good signal. The result are, as I found out, erratic pointing. This is where the EC's value comes in as it will use that bearing to keep you on course making it more accurate and easy to follow. After experiencing the two, believe me there is a difference. I now have the GPSmap 60csx and it is a great unit and if price isn't a concern, I'd recommend it in a heartbeat. I tried to keep it short...;)

[M1Garand]

Wolf Dancer, here's some links to some sites with great prices:

www.gpsonsale.com (http://www.gpsonsale.com)

http://www.davesmarineelectronics.com/

I've bought from them both and had great service.

[hitechman]

that you should have a magnetic compass with you as well. All sorts of things can happen to an "electronic" device to make it malfunction.

What was stated in the 2 posts is correct, but I find myself using the map page (as opposed to the compass page) with a "go to" and follow my tracks back (for the most part). I like to see the waypoint of my vehicle on the map and just basically head for that.

Wolf Dancer--in speaking with you I believe you will be happiest (if you decide to go with Garmin) with the Garmin GPSMAP-76Cx (or the GPSMAP-76CSX if you want the compass and altimeter/barometer). I currently own and use both units. I rarely use the electronic compass, but I do use the barometer/altimeter extensively (I've had some training in meteorology and the barometer comes in handy for weather forcasting when no forcast is available (northern Ontario).

My reasons: both are water resistant and FLOAT, larger size, larger buttons (and all on the front and labeled), larger screen, removable map storage cards (as opposed to built in, non-changeable memory), and they have the SiRF technology to lock on to weaker signals in heavy tree cover (it's amazing how fast they lock on and the terrain that they will find a signal.

If you consider a case, I'd suggest (to all of you) the one made by FOARM--My unit took a lickin' and kept on tickin' in Canada this summer, and I owe it all to this case (only available for the Garmin 72-76 models though).

Case: http://www.foarm.com/ (they sell them on Amazon.com)

Good price and service (compares 6 Garmins):

1) http://gpsnow.com/gmmap76cx.htm

2) 76Cx ($309): http://www.gpsonsale.com/garmin/products/76Cx.htm

3) 76CSx ($329): http://www.gpsonsale.com/garmin/products/76CSx.htm

Rebates are not available on the 76 models, but $50 rebate on the 60 models (but I think you'll find them listed at about $50 more, and IMHO they are VERY SLIGHTLY inferior).

Steve

[M1Garand]

Steve, I don't know much about the 76 models but to me it looks like mostly minor differences. The 60's also have the SiRF technology and it does lock on fast. Other than the 60's having an external antenna and the 76's floating, is there much more difference other than cosmetic? Offhand it kinda looks to me that the 76's may be a better choice for fisherman or those on the water, but I could be wrong. But I definately vote for the Garmin brand.

[hitechman]

M1--
Believe it or not, I also own a GPSMAP-60Cx, and a GPS-72. My GPSMAP 76Cx has a permanent site on the dashboard of my truck, and my 76CSX goes into the bush with me (everywhere I go). I got the 60Cx for my wife--she needs the bigger screen, but something a little smaller to hold onto.

I have huge hands and fingers and find it difficult (with gloves on) to get the right button on the 60. I kept my GPS 72 for my grandson to use when we geocache. It's an entry GPS, with no maps (unless you want to call that basemap a map???), and a fairly inexpensive price.

Not knocking any of them--just stating my preferences. Find one you like and go with it.

I guess I would suggest that everyone looking for a handheld should get a BW entry level, nonmapping unit and learn to use it--then go from there. Be a shame to buy a $400-500 unit only to decide you don't like it.


BTW: I have spoken with wolfdancer on the phone (quite extensively) and know a little more about her situation and cirumstances that can be gathered from her posts. BUT STILL, it is my reccommendation, and I informed her to get other opinions (even on other brands for which I can not speak).

Steve

[sfw1960]

Lowrance DOES have downloadable emulators so you can "play" with a unit to see how they work....
There are a lot of Garmin guys on the board here , but I dig my Lowrance & Eagle GPS's..........
Eagle AccuNav Sport almost 11 yrs old and Lowrance LMS332c (2yrs) on the boat.

It's all new to you , but you'll sure appreciate it once you learn it!

Robert

[hitechman]

I'm not knocking Lowrence at all. I've just not had any experience with them so I can't say anything good or bad about them. I've had Garmins for the past 9 year and had good luck with them and they satisfy my needs. I've got what I think is a good GPS and I'm sticking with it for now. I'm always open to suggestions and would definitely need to field test (no simulations for me) to see how I really felt about it.

I assured wolfdancer that there are many good units out there and encouraged users of other brands to post in this forum on their experiences.

I've seen GPSr users swear by and swear at just about all the brands. My first unit in 1994 was a Magellan (don't even remember the model) and I had some BAD experiences with it--so I switched, That is not to say the Magellan brand wouldn't make me happy today---it's just that I am not willing to chance it because of 1 bad experience 12 years ago (when probably all GPSr's were in their infancy.

I will tell you this--with all the geocachers I have met (probably 50 since I purchased the new Garmins with SiRF technology), my Garmin "X" model handhelds have pulled in a signal when ALL the others have lost it (or wandered). I don't believe any other brands use the SiRF technology at this time. It's really amazing--I get a signal everywhere in my house.

Steve

[sfw1960]

No prob... I wasn't suggesting you were either.
I was just saying that a lot of guys DO like their Garmins and the Lowrance Emulators helped me decide what machine I chose.
FWIW ~ My LMS332c locks up inside no problem - house or garage.
;)
I also enjoy my Humminbird 787c2 Combo - it has a 16ch RX and it's never lost a fix once while I've been out with it - and I can't say that (albeit seconds) about the Lowrance!
It's all about what works best for YOU.
;)

[M1Garand]

Steve makes some good points. What I or someone else may prefer in a unit, someone else may not. I don't have large hands so the 60 series works for me. He does so the 76 series works for him. Going from an eTrex to the 60csx, I do kinda like having more buttons on it that take you right to the screen I want. There may be different uses or what not that one unit may be preferred over another, I think any potential user has to determine that for themselves. Do the 76 series come with the maps (ie mapsource topo) in them or just the basemap? IMO, with just the basemaps in the units from the eTrex to my 60CSX, they don't cut it. I saw a comparison somewhere online comparring the 60cx to the 60csx and there are improvements over the cx from what I remember. But it is well worth it to have the topo maps loaded into them.

I've nothing negative to say about the Garmins or any other brands. I've just had Garmins and had good results. I've no doubt other brands will do the job, I just have no experience with them.

[hitechman]

76 series comes only with a base map also. Any other maps are extra (usually around $100 each). There have been some "bundled packages" that I have seen advertised that come with a map series--but you pay for them one way or another.

My wish is for a "universal" operating system where any map from any manufacturer can be loaded into any brand of GPS. As it stands now, we are limited to using that GPSr's manufacturers line of maps only.

BTW--that is something else to consider. Are the maps that are available going to suit your needs. It would be a shame to buy a GPSr only to find that the maps you desire are not available from that manufacturer. For example: the topo maps available from Garmin are very outdated--5 to 10 years old.

Steve

[M1Garand]

I bet it'll be quite a while before we see (if ever) compatablility between the mapping software. Have you by chance went to the Garmin website to update your software. There are updates both for mapsource and the actual GPS units.

[hitechman]

I check for OS and software updates on a regualr basis...something I feel many do not do because they feel overwhelmed by the process. It's just a simple download, connect your GPS to your computer with a cable (parallel or USB), turn on the GPS and click on the download.

It took me a while to figure out how to do that stuff. Many of the less expensive units do not come with software or cables, and I feel most are not willing to put out the extra expense.

Steve